Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Xiaomi Redmi 10 and the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra. I'll be focusing on how these technical specifications translate into real-world experiences.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi 10 | ZTE Axon 40 Ultra | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-08-20 | 2022-05-13 | The Axon 40 Ultra is newer, potentially benefiting from more recent tech and software updates. |
| Form Factor | Standard | Standard | Both are standard smartphones, no folding or unique design elements. |
| Dimensions | 162 x 75.5 x 8.9 mm | 163.3 x 73.6 x 8.4 mm | Redmi 10 is slightly wider and thicker; Axon 40 Ultra is taller but narrower. The Redmi 10 is larger overall in volume. |
| Weight | 181g | 204g | Redmi 10 is noticeably lighter, making it more comfortable for extended periods of use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.8" | Axon 40 Ultra has a slightly larger screen, better for media consumption and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1116x2480 | Axon 40 Ultra has a moderately higher resolution, leading to slightly sharper images and text. |
| Pixel Density | 405 PPI | 400 PPI | Both are very similar in pixel density, so the difference will be minimal. |
| Technology | AMOLED | Axon 40 Ultra's AMOLED offers better contrast, deeper blacks, and potentially more vibrant colors compared to the Redmi 10. | |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Axon 40 Ultra has a smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1500 nits | Axon 40 Ultra is far superior for outdoor use under bright sunlight. The Redmi 10 brightness is not provided so we assume it's much less than 1500 nits. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G88 (12nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4nm) | Axon 40 Ultra's chip offers significantly better processing power and efficiency. |
| AnTuTu Score | 253,600 | 1,061,300 | Axon 40 Ultra scores over 4 times higher, indicating vastly superior performance in all tasks. |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | Adreno 730 | Axon 40 Ultra offers a superior GPU, leading to much better gaming performance. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76" | 64MP, f/1.6, 1/1.72" | Axon 40 Ultra’s main camera has a higher resolution, larger sensor and wider aperture that typically means better performance, especially in low light. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.0 | 16MP, f/2.0 | Axon 40 Ultra's front camera has higher resolution that will result in sharper selfies. |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 64MP, f/3.5, 1/2" | Axon 40 Ultra provides additional optical zoom capabilities, the Redmi 10 doesn't have telephoto lens. |
| Wide-Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8" | None | Redmi 10 allows users to capture wider images, the Axon 40 Ultra doesn't have one. |
| ToF 3D Sensor | None | 0.3MP | Axon 40 Ultra can create depth maps for better portrait effects. |
| Portrait Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | Redmi 10 allows users to capture depth information for better portrait effect, Axon 40 Ultra doesn't have portrait lens. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | Redmi 10 allows users to capture close up shots, Axon 40 Ultra doesn't have macro lens. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | None | 64MP, f/2.3, 1/1.72" | Axon 40 Ultra allows users to capture wider images with macro capabilities |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | Up to 8K@30fps | Axon 40 Ultra's superior video recording capabilities allow for professional-grade content creation. |
| Video Stabilisation | No | Yes (EIS, OIS) | Axon 40 Ultra offers superior video quality with advanced stabilization. |
| Slow-motion | 120 fps | 480 fps | Axon 40 Ultra can capture more detailed slow-motion videos. |
| Camera Features | Digital zoom, Quad, etc | OIS, LAF, Under-display, etc | Axon 40 Ultra offers advanced features including OIS, optical zoom and an under-display camera. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both phones have the same battery capacity. |
| Charging | 18W Fast Charging | 65W Fast Charging | Axon 40 Ultra offers substantially faster charging, getting you back up and running much quicker. |
| Battery Features | Reverse, 9W reverse | None | Redmi 10 can charge other devices wirelessly, a nice feature to have in a pinch. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 12 (Upgradable to 13) | Axon 40 Ultra has a newer version of Android, offering newer features and better security out of the box. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11ac | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | Axon 40 Ultra has the latest WiFi 6 standard for faster and more stable connections. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.2 LE | Axon 40 Ultra has a newer Bluetooth version for enhanced wireless connectivity. |
| GPS | Standard | Enhanced | Axon 40 Ultra supports more satellite systems for more accurate location tracking. |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Both phones support Dual SIM capabilities. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 64GB/128GB | 128GB/256GB/512GB/1024GB | Axon 40 Ultra provides significantly more internal storage options for more media, apps and files. |
| RAM | 4GB/6GB | 8GB/12GB/16GB/18GB | Axon 40 Ultra has much more RAM, allowing for better performance, multitasking and gaming. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage options. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Stereo Speakers | DTS/X, Stereo, 3 mics | Axon 40 Ultra provides better sound quality with the enhanced surround sound, clear voice capture with 3 mics |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-Mounted Fingerprint | Basic Fingerprint | Redmi 10 uses a more convenient and reliable side-mounted sensor for fingerprint unlock. |
| Build | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass 3 | Unknown | Redmi 10 is protected with Corning Gorilla Glass 3. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accel., Comp., Gyro, Prox, | Accel., Gyro, Prox. | Redmi 10 has a compass, which is useful for navigation applications and the Axon 40 has Gravity and Hall sensors. |
| ### 2. Key Insights |
Xiaomi Redmi 10:
- Strengths: Lightweight design, reverse charging capability, side-mounted fingerprint sensor, and a wide-angle lens. It also has a compass and ultrasonic proximity virtual sensor.
- Competitive Advantages: More affordable price point, reverse charging is a handy feature for charging accessories, and a slightly more convenient fingerprint sensor.
- Trade-offs: Lower performance, standard display quality, limited camera capabilities, slower charging speeds, less memory and limited storage.
- User Experience: It’s an entry-level phone, best for basic daily tasks, browsing, and social media use. It is easy to carry around due to its lightweight design.
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra:
- Strengths: Flagship-level performance, superior AMOLED display, advanced camera system, lightning-fast charging, and more RAM and storage.
- Competitive Advantages: The superior processor, much better display, advanced camera features (telephoto and excellent video recording capabilities), larger RAM and internal storage, and fast charging. It also has better audio quality and enhanced GPS.
- Trade-offs: Heavier build, no reverse charging, no wide-angle lens or macro lens.
- User Experience: This is a high-end device, excelling in demanding tasks like gaming, content creation, and photography. It is a powerhouse for those needing serious performance.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi 10 is Ideal For:
- Budget-conscious users: Those who need a functional smartphone for basic tasks without breaking the bank.
- Casual users: Users who prioritize ease of use and portability over high-end specs.
- Users who need reverse charging: If you regularly need to charge accessories or help out friends with a low battery, the reverse charging function is extremely useful.
- First-time smartphone buyers: Simplicity and ease of use are crucial for someone new to smartphones.
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra is Ideal For:
- Power users: Those who frequently run demanding applications, play graphic-intensive games, or engage in serious multitasking.
- Photography enthusiasts: Users who want a versatile camera system with advanced features, good performance in low light, and a telephoto lens.
- Content creators: Those needing a device with high-quality video recording, and accurate colour displays, for creating high-end video content.
- Professionals: Those who need a high-performance smartphone for work, with large storage for documents and media.
- Users who want the latest technology: A large and vibrant display, powerful processor, large memory and storage, and 5G.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Practical Questions to Ask Yourself:
- What is my budget? The Redmi 10 will be considerably cheaper, whereas the Axon 40 Ultra sits at the high-end of the price spectrum.
- How do I plan to use my phone? Is it for basic browsing and social media, or do I need a device for gaming, photography, or professional tasks?
- What is most important to me: battery and portability, or performance and camera capabilities?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: "I need a cheap phone for basic tasks": Choose the Xiaomi Redmi 10. It's more budget-friendly and handles daily tasks perfectly well.
- Scenario 2: "I'm a hardcore gamer and photographer": Go for the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra. Its powerful performance and top-tier camera are perfect for the task.
- Scenario 3: "I want the best display and the latest performance but don't want to spend top-tier dollars": Choose the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra. The vastly superior screen and performance capabilities will be well worth the investment for the long run.
- Scenario 4: "I value battery longevity and convenience over raw power": Consider the Xiaomi Redmi 10 for the reverse charging feature but remember it will be slower and have less battery efficiency.
My Choice and Why:
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would go for the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra, without a doubt.
Here's why:
- Performance Powerhouse: As someone who uses my phone for more than basic tasks, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 and vast RAM is a must. It ensures that my phone can handle anything I throw at it, and for years to come.
- Stunning Display: The AMOLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate is just something I can't go without once I've gotten used to it. The increased brightness of 1500 nits is also incredibly useful for working outdoors on the go.
- Superior Camera: As an avid photographer, the advanced camera system and telephoto lens are very attractive. The vastly superior video capabilities is also something that I need. The high-res main sensor is also a must.
- Long-Term Value: While it is more expensive upfront, the Axon 40 Ultra is a far better device. This also means that I won't be itching to upgrade again for a long time, making it worthwhile in the long run.
The Xiaomi Redmi 10 is a decent budget phone, but it pales in comparison to the performance, camera capabilities, and cutting-edge display of the Axon 40 Ultra. For me, the benefits of the Axon 40 Ultra justify the higher cost, providing a premium experience. It truly brings the latest technology into the palm of your hands.
